BY-LAWS, 


KULES  AND  REGULATIONS 


FOR 


THE  GOVERNMENT 


OF    THE 


Wm$  Mint* 


%M 


AUSTIN 


AUSTIN. 

PRINTED  AT  THE  INTELLIGENCE 
1861. 


^ 


BY-LAWS, 


RULES  AND  REGULATIONS 


FOH 


THE  GOVERNMENT 


OF   THE 


A  USTIN. 


«-..-* 


AUSTIN. 

I'RINTKD  AT  THE  INTELLIGENCER  BOOK  OFFICE. 

1861. 


BOARD  OF  MANAGERS. 


W.  C.  PHILLIPS,  M.  D.,  President. 

Hon.  R.  J.  TOWNES, 

GEORGE  HANCOCK, 

W.  P.  MABEN, 

W.  L.  ROBARDS,  Esq. 

B.  GRAHAM,  M.  D., 

Medical  Officer  and  Superintendent. 


RESIDENT    OFFICERS 

OP   THE 

ASYLUM. 


SUPERINTENDENT, 

ASSISTANT  PHYSICIAN, 

CLERK  or  BOOK  KEEPER, 

STEWARD  and  MATRON, 

MALE  and  FEMALE  SUPERVISORS ; 

— All  of  whom  shall  reside  on  the  premises,   and  devote  their 
time  to  the  interests  of  the  Institution. 


AHAM  10 


M  .0  .W 

■ 

I 


5! 


. 


RULES  AND  REGULATIONS. 


INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS. 


1.  The  Board  of  Managers  shall  choose  one  of  their  number 
[President,  who  shall  continue  in  office  until  the  Annual  Meeting 
next  after  he  is  chosen,  and  until  his  successor  is  appointed. 

2.  An  Auditing  Committee  of  two  members  shall  be  appointed, 
who  shall  hold  their  places  until  the  Annual  Meeting  next  follow- 
ing their  appointment. 

3.  The  Managers  shall  also  elect  an  Assistant  Physician,  who 
shall  be  a  graduate  of  Medicine,  a  competent  Clerk  or  Book 
Keeper,  a  Steward,  Matron,  and  Male  and  Female  Supervisor — all 
of  whom  shall  be  placed  in  nomination  by  the  Superintendent. 

An  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Board  of  Managers  shall  be  held  on 
the  first  Monday  in  October.  Quarterly  Meetings  shall  be  held  on 
the  first  Monday  in  January,  April  and  July  j.  and  Monthly  Meet- 
ings on  the  first  Monday  in  each  month,  at  10  o'clock,  A.  M.,  at 
the  office  of  the  Superintendent. 

The  Asylum  aUall  be  visited  by  the  whole  Board,  at  their  An- 
nual Meetings,  and  by  a  majority,  at  their  Quarterly  Meetings. 

Special  meetings  may  be  called  by  the  President,  Superintentent, 
•r  by  any  two  members  ;  and  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Clerk  to 
cause  notice  of  such  meetings  to  be  delivered  to  the  meinbirs. 


DUTIES  OF  THE  SUPERINTENDENT. 

The  Superintendent  shall  be  the  Chief  Executive  and  Medical 
Officer  of  the  Asylum.  He  shall  have  the  general  superintendence 
of  the  Buildings  and  Grounds — the  charge  of  the  patients — the 
expenditures  of  the  Institution,  and  the  direction  and  control  of  all 
persons  therein  subject  to  the  regulation  of  the  Board  of  Man- 
agers. 

He  shall  visit  all  the  patients  daily,  or  learn  their  condition. 
He  shall  have  the  entire  direction  of  their  medical,  moral  and  di- 
etic  treatment ;  and  his  instructions  respecting  them,  are  to  be  im- 
plicitly obeyed  by  all  persons  about  the  establishment. 

The  Superintendent's  Report  to  the  Governor  shall  be  entered 
upon  the  minutes  of  the  Board  of  Managers,  and  be  ready  for 
their  inspection  at  their  Annual  Meeting. 

He  shall  obtain,  as  far  as  practicable,  a  complete  history  of  pa- 
tients admitted  into  the  Asylum,  and  shall  keep,  or  cause  to  be 
kept,  for  the  use  of  the  Institution,  a  register  of  the  same,  and  as 
full  a  record  of  the  subsequent  treatment  and  results,  as  he  may 
deem  likely  to  promote  the  interest  of  science  and  benefit  the  In- 
sane. 

He  shall  receive  and  answer,  or  cause  to  be  answered,  all  com- 
munications respecting  the  Asylum  ;  and  shall  file  all  letters  thus 
received,  and  keep  in  a  book  provided  for  the  purpose,  copies  of 
all  letters  written  in  answer  thereto. 

Subject  to  the  general  instruction  of  the  Board  of  Managers,  he 
shall  determine  what  attendants  and  other  assistants  are  necessary 
to  be  employed,  and  their  respective  places  and  duties,  and  shall 
arrange  with  them  their  rate  of  monthly  wages.  Upon  the  requi- 
sition of  the  Board  of  Managers,  the  Treasurer  may,  from  time  to 
time,  advance  to  the  Superintendent,  for  petty  expenses,  a  sum  not 
exceeding  Two  Hundred  Dollars — which  sum  the  Superintendent 
may,  at  his  discretion,  deliver  to  the  Steward.  He  shall  also  be 
authorized,  when,  in  his  judgment,  it  may  be  deemed  necessary,  to 
call  in  a  counselling  Physician  or  Physicians. 

At  each  visit  of  the  Managers  he  shall  exhibit  the  records  of 
the  Asylum,  and  at  the  Quarterly  Meetings,  shall  give  a  statement 
of  its  condition  ;  at  each  Monthly  Meeting,  he  shall  exhibit  all  the 
records  of  the  Institution, — the  names  of  persons  received  or  re- 
moved, with  such  suggestions  and  remarks  as  he  may  deem  useful. 

DUTIES  OF  THE  ASSISTANT  PHYSICIAN. 

The  Assistant  Physician  shall  be  a  well  educated  Physician,  and 
shall  constantly  reside  at  the  Asylum.     He  shall  have  charge  of 


the  Inmates  of  the  Asylum,  and  shall  exercise  a  general  supervis- 
ion, under  the  direction  of  the  Superintendent. 

He  shall  visit  all  the  patients  in  their  respective  divisions  once 
each  day — in  the  morning,  and,  if  necessary,  in  the  afternoon  or 
evening,  or  oftener ;  carefully  observe  their  condition,  wants  and 
treatment;  and  see  that  they  have  food,  medicine,  exercise,  amuse- 
ments, clothing  and  bedding  suitable  for  them  ;  exert  what  moral 
influence  he  can  with  them,  and  endeavor  in  every  way  to  promote 
their  comfort  and  recovery. 

He  shall  see  that  the  attendants  and  assistants  are  faithful  and 
kind  ;  attentive  to  the  wants  of  the  patients,  and  vigilant  in  the 
discharge  of  their  duties ;  and  he  shall  report  immediately  to  the 
Superintendent  all  instances  of  misconduct,  unfaithfulness,  neglect 
of  duty  observed  by  hii^or  of  which  he  may  receive  information  ; 
and  he  shall  also  record  the  particulars  of  all  accidents  and  es- 
!  capes. 

For  the  due  performance  of  the  duties  enjoined  in  the  foregoing 

sections,  he  shall  spend  much  time  in  the  Male  and  Female  Divisions  ; 

i  shall  be  in  constant  communication  with  the  supervisors,   atten- 

|  dants  and  assistants,  and  shall  carry  out  the  plans  and  instructions 

of  the  Superintendent,  in  the  best  manner  he  is  able. 

He  shall  report  in  writing  to  the  Superintendent,  daily,  in  a  book 
j  kept  for  that  purpose,  the  general  condition  of  the  inmates,  and 
the  particular  state  of  such  patients  as  may  be  sick  or  greatly  ex- 
cited, and  of  those  requiring  restraint,  removal,  or  seclusion,  or 
special  attention. 

He  shall  keep  records  of  the  cases  of  all  the  patients  in  the  Asy- 
lum, describing  the  symptoms — the  changes  that  may  occur  from 
time  to  time — the  mode  of  treatment,  and  all  the  peculiar  circum- 
stances connected  therewith.  He  shall  also  see  that  the  records  of 
admissions  and  discharges  are  accurately  kept. 

He  shall  attend  to  the  warmth,  cleanliness,  ventilation,  good  or- 
der of  the  Asylum,  and  superintend  the  use  of  the  baths. 

He  shall  attend  to  visitors  when  necessary,  and  shall  always  be 
ready  to  perform  whatever  service  may  be  required  of  him  by  the 
Superintendent,  and,  under  his  directions,  shall  assist  in  conducting 
the  correspondence  with  the  friends  of  patients. 

When  requested  by  the  Superintendent,  he  shall  visit  the  entire 
establishment — see  all  the  patients,  and  learn  their  condition  and 
treatment.  He  shall  exercise  the  duties  of  Superintendent,  when- 
ever the  latter  may  be  adsent. 

He  shall  have  charge  of  the  "  Shop,"  which  he  shall  see  is  al- 
ways in  order,  and  shall  prepare  and  superintend  the  administra- 
tion of  the  medicine. 


DUTIES  OF  THE  BOOK  KEEPER, 

The  Book  Keeper  or  Clerk  shall  keep  the  regular  books  of  the 
Asylum,  in  a  proper  manner,  under  the  direction  of  the  Superin- 
tendent. He  shall  keep  all  vouchers  and  other  papers,  and  see  that 
the  statements  of  receipts  and  expenditures  by  the  Steward,  are 
correctly  made,  and  that  the  proper  vouchers  are  filed  with  the  re- 
ceipts and  disbursements.  He  shall  always  furnish  such  reports  to 
the  Managers  as  may  be  required,  and  do  and  perform  such  other 
writing  on  account  of  the  Asylum,  as  may  be  required  of  him  by 
the  Medical  Superintendent  and  Board  of  Managers.  He  may 
also  be  Secretary  of  the  Board  of  Managers,  and  keep  their  min- 
utes under  their  direction. 

He  shall  have  charge  of  the  money,  Jewelry,  extra  clothing, 
&c,  of  the  patients  during  their  stay  in  the  Asylum,  and  be  re- 
sponsible for  their  delivery  on  their  leaving.      ™ 

All  the  books  and  accounts  shall  be  open  to  the  inspection  and 
examination  of  the  Superintendent  and  Board  of  Managers. 

DUTIES  OF  THE  STEWARD. 

The  Steward  shall  execute  a  bond,  with  two  sureties,  to  be  ap- 
proved by  the  Superintendent,  in  the  penalty  of  Three  Thousand 
Dollars,  conditioned  that  he  will  faithfully  discharge  the  duties  of 
the  office  of  Steward,  and  pay  over  and  account  for  all  moneys  that 
shall  come  to  his  hands  belonging  to  the  Texas  State  Lunatic  Asy- 
lum. Said  bond  shall  be  executed  to  the  Superintendent  and  be 
filed  in  his  office. 

The  Steward  shall  keep  an  accurate  account  in  detail,  in  a  pass 
or  private  or  other  proper  book,  of  all  expenses  paid  out  of  the 
sums  advanced  to  him  by  the  Scperintendent,  and  shall  settle  the 
same  with  him  monthly  or  oftencr  if  required,  furnishing  duplicate 
vouchers  of  the  same. 

The  Steward,  under  the  Superintendent's  direction,  shall  pur- 
chase furniture,  food,  medicine,  fuel,  stoves,  and  other  necessary 
articles ;  and  he  shall  be  accountable  for  their  safe  keeping,  and 
for  their  economical  use  and  expenditure. 

He  shall  keep  clear,  methodical  and  exact  accounts  of  all  pur- 
chases— of  all  receipts  and  expenditures  of  money,  and  of  all 
charges,  on  account  of  any  patients.  He  shall  exhibit  all  his  ac- 
counts, books,  and  recent  vouchers,  to  the  Superintendent  and  Man- 
agers ;  and  he  shall  furnish  a  Quarterly  Abstract  of  the  same  to 
the  Managers  on  the  first  days  of  January,  April,  July  and  Octo- 
ber, in  each  year.     Copies  of  all  accounts  which  become  due  to  the 


. 


9 

Institution,  shall  be  famished  to  the  Superintendent  and  Managers. 

In  the  name  of  the  Superintendent,  and  by  his  directions  in  each 
case,  and  not  otherwise,  the  Steward  shall  hire  attendants  and  as- 
sistants, and  agree  with  them  for  their  wages ;  and  by  like  direc- 
tion, he  shall  dismiss  them  when  unfaithful,  negligent  or  incompe- 
tent ;  he  shall  keep  and  settle  their  accounts  ;  and  he  shall  perform 
such  other  duties,  in  relation  to  the  internal  management  and  gov- 
ernment of  the  Asylum,  as  the  Supeimiendent  shall  require.  He 
shall  see  that  the  attendants  and  assistants  rise  and  begin  business 
immediately  after  the  ringing  of  the  morning  bell,  and  that  they 
retire  at  proper  season  at  night.  Throughout  the  day  he  shall  con- 
stantly observe  their  conduct — see  that  in  ;ill  respects  they  do  their 
duty,  and  report  to  the  Superintendent,  immediately,  any  instance 
of  misconduct  or  negligence. 

He  shall  receive  vis^ors,  givo  them  all  suitable  information,  and 
show  them  such  parts  of  the  buildings  and  grounds  as  are  open  for 
their  examination. 

He  shall  remain,  as  much  as  possible,  in  the  Wards  appropriated 
to  the  male  patients,  so  as  to  be  much  in  their  presence,  to  see 
that  they  are  kindly  treated  ;  that  their  beds  are  in  good  order ; 
that  their  clothes  are  properly  marked  and  taken  good  care  of; 
that  their  food  is  properly  served  and  distributed,  and  that  they 
take  the  same  in  a  proper  manner;  that  the  rooms,  halls,  yards, 
shops  and  out-buildings,  and  other  apartments  under  his  care,  are 
kept  clean  and  in  good  order,  and  properly  warmed  and  ventilated  : 
and  that  the  attendants  observe  his  orders  and  directions,  and  in 
all  respects  do  their  duty  ;'  and  that  all  articles  made  for  the  pa- 
tients or  Asylum,  are  carefully  preserved. 

In  all  directions  to  subordinate  agents,  in  executing  the  details 
of  the  Superintendent's  plans,  and  in  enforcing  his  rules,  the  Stew- 
ard shall  be  considered  as  carrying  the  authority  of  the  Superin- 
tendent. It  is  his  duty  to  preserve  order  in  the  house,  and  faith- 
fulness among  the  assistants,  and  to  see  that  the  regulations  here 
adopted,  shall  be  fully  put  in  practice.  It,  shall  also  be  his  duty 
to  see  to  the  opening  and  closing  of  the  house,  morning  and  even- 
ing. 

DUTIES  OF  THE  MATRON. 

It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Matron  to  look  carefully  to  the  female 
patients,  and  spend  as  much  time  with  them  as  her  other  duties  will 
allow ;  she  shall  see  that  they  are  kindly  treated  ;  that  their  nur- 
ses and  attendants  are  well  instructed  and  faithful ;  that  their 
apartments  are  clean,  warm  and  properly  ventilated ;  that  their 


10 

food  is  properly  served  and  distributed  ;  and  that  their  clothes  and 
bedding  are  always  clean,  well  aired,  and  in  good  order,  and  their 
apparel  marked  and  preserved. 

She  shall  also  superintend  the  kitchen  and  laundry,  and  see  that 
the  cooking,  washing  and  ironing  are  properly  done ;  frequently 
inspect  every  department,  and  have  an  eye  to  the  neat  appearance 
of  the  whole  house.  It  is  expected  that  she  will  devote  her  whole 
time  to  the  Institution,  and  spare  no  efforts  to  promote  the  comfort 
and  recovery  of  its  inmates.  She  shall  also  superintend  the  sew- 
ing rooms,  and  see  that  all  new  articles  made  for  patients,  are  prop- 
erly marked,  and  rightfully  disposed  of,  and  preserved. 

It  shall  be  her  special  duty  to  see  to  those  that  are  sick — that 
they  have  constant  and  kind  nurses  and  proper  care  in  all  respects. 
She  shall  constantly  notice  the  conduct  of  attendants  and  assistants 
— see  -that  in  all  respects  they  do  their  duty,  and  report  to  the  Su- 
perintendent, immediately,  any  instance  of  misconduct  or  negli- 
gence. 

DUTIES  OF  SUPERVISORS. 

The  Supervisors  of  the  respective  Wards  are  bound  to  see  that 
the  rules  contained  in  this  Code  are  faithfully  carried  out  in  every 
particular  ;  that  the  attendants  perform  their  duties  properly ;  and 
that  all  the  patients  are  made  as  comfortable,  at  all  times,  as  cir- 
cumstances will  permit. 

They  shall  attend  specially  to  the  sick — see  that  they  are  treated 
with  great  care  and  kindness  ;  receive  the  orders  of  the  Physicians 
and  see  that  they  are  faithfully  executed.  It  shull  be  their  duty  to 
instruct  new  attendants  in  their  duties,  and  see  that  they  are  effi- 
cient, industrious  and  kind.  They  shall  assist  in  the  arrangements 
for  the  burial  of  the  dead,  and  be  ready  at  all  times  to  attend  to 
any  extraordinary  service  that  may  be  required  of  them  by  the 
Superintendent. 

They  shall  pay  particular  attention  to  new  patients— see  that  they 
are  properly  introduced  and  informed  about  the  establishment ; — 
their  fears  quieted  by  kind  attention  and  friendly  assurances,  and 
that  the  violent  and  suicidal  are  carefully  watched. 

They  shall  also  see  that  the  halls  are  properly  supplied  with  fur- 
niture and  articles  for  use,  and  shall  often  communicate  with  the 
Physicians  respecting  the  patients  under  their  charge,  and  inform 
them  of  changes  in  their  condition,  that  require  attention,  and  of 
those  likely  to  be  benefited  or  injured  by  exercise,  labor,  amuse- 
ments or  religious  services. 

They  shill  in  all  things  endeavor  to  carry  into  successful  opera- 


11 

tion,  the  plans  of  the  Superintendent,  and  shall  constantly  study 
to  promote  the  comfort,  contentedness  and  welfare  of  the  patients, 
and  for  these  purposes  they  shall  visit  every  part  of  their  respec- 
tive departments,  several  times  each  day.  They  shall  also  see  to 
the  changes  of  patients  from  one  hall  to  another,  and  walk  out 
with  patients  that  are  feeble  or  timid,  or  with  others,  when  they 
have  time. 

OVERSEERS  OF  THE  KITCHEN  AND  BAKERY. 

The  Kitchen  and  Bakery  shall  have  a  Chief,  whose  duty  it  shall 
be  to  see  to  the  safe-keeping  and  economical  use  of  ail  the  sup- 
plies furnished  to  those  departments.  He  shall  see  that  the  food  is 
well  cooked  and  properly  distributed,  and  that  nothing  is  wasted — 
that  no  extra  or  unusual  articles  are  cooked  for  those  in  the  kitch- 
ens, nor  sent  into  the  Wards,  unless  the  person  calling  for  such, 
say  it  is  by  order  of  the  Steward  or  Superintendent ;  that  there 
is  no  unnecessary  or  improper  conversation  carried  on  with  those 
in  the  Wards — that  there  is  no  rude  or  improper  behavior  in  the 
cooking  departments,  including  the  bakery — no  bad  language  or 
quarreling,  but  that  all  work  faithfully.  They  shall  see  that  these 
departments,  including  store-rooms,  &c,  are  kept  neat  and  in  good 
order,  and  that  no  idle  company  be  suffered  to  visit  the  kitchens  or 
bakery — nor  the  attendants  or  assistants  in  other  departments, 
without  special  business  or  by  permission  of  one  of  the  officers. 
All  violations  of  these  rules,  or  instances  of  bad  conduct  on  the 
part  of  those  employed  in  their  departments,  are  to  be  reported  by 
the  Chief  to  the  Superintendent,  immediately. 

In  such  an  establishment  where  there  are  large  quantities  of  pro- 
visions and  many  hands  employed,  constant  vigilance  will  be  ne- 
cessary to  guard  against  the  feeling  on  the  part  of  many  :  that  it 
is  of  no  consequence  if  some  things  are  lost  or  squandered;  that 
they  belong  to  the  State,  and  there  are  enough  left.  Any  remarks 
of  this  kind,  or  conduct  indicating  such  feelings,  should  be  made 
known,  at  once,  to  the  Superintendent.  In  short,  the  Chief  is  ex- 
pected to  know,  from  his  own  observation,  that  the  articles  and 
food  intrusted  to  him,  are  safely  kept  and  economically  used,  and 
that  good  order  and  cleanliness  prevail  in  all  the  departments  un- 
der his  care.  It  will  be  his  duty  to  see  that  those  employed,  rise 
early  and  are  attentive  and  faithful  throughout  the  day  and  hours 
of  labor. 

It  must  be  no  excuse  for  the  overseer  that  his  departments  are 
not  in  good  order  for  want  of  sufficient  help,  furniture  or  proper 
arrangements,  as  his  application  to  the  Steward  must  be  repeated 
until  they  are  well  furnished  in  these  respects. 


12 

rr 

OVERSEERS  or  Tin;  WASHING  and  IRONING  ROOMS. 

The  Chief*  of  the  Washing  Department  shall  collect  the  clothing 
and  other  articles  to  be  washed,  as  directed  by  the  Steward  and 
Matron,  and  see  that  they  are  properly  and  carefully  washed,  dried 
and  carried  to  the  Ironing  Rooms.  Especial  care  must  be-  taken 
that  none  are  lost.  For  this  purpose,  he  must  see  that  he  receives 
all  the  articles  on  the  lists  given  him,  and  that  they  are  marked, 
and  that  he  furnishes  the  same  with  the  lists,  to  the  Ironing  Rooms. 

The  Chief  of  the  Ironing  Rooms,  shall  see  that  the  clothes  and 
other  articles  delivered  to  him,  from  the  Washing  Rooms,  are  pro- 
perly ironed,  mended,  and  correctly  distributed,  according  to  the 
lists  furnished  him,  under  the  directions  of  the  Steward  and  Mat- 
ron. 

The  Chief  of  the  Washing  and  Ironing  Rooms,  shall  not  per- 
mit attendants  or  assistants,  or  any  company  or  visitor  whatever, 
into  their  departments,  except  by  the  direction  of  one  of  the  offi- 
cers of  the  Asylum.  Violations  of  this  rule  are  to  be  reported  to 
the  Superintendent,  immediately. 

WATCHMAN  AND  WATCIIWOMAN. 

The  Watchman  will  commence  his  rounds  at  sunset, — at  which 
hour  he  will  call  at  the  Physician's  office  for  directions  for  the 
night.  He  will  keep  moving  about  from  Ward  to  Ward,  during 
the  entire-night,  and  will  visit  every  part  of  the  house  (except  that 
occupied  by  the  female  patients)  at  least  every  hour,  frequently 
passing  on  the  out  side  of  the  hospital,  and  noticing  the  out- 
buildings. 

He  must  be  kind,  gentle,  and  soothing  in  his  manner  to  the  pa- 
tients, and  take  every  means  in  his  power  to  tranquilize  those  that 
are  excited,  and  to  allay  the  fears  and  apprehensions  of  the  timid. 
He  will  see  that  they  are  promptly  supplied  with  water  when  it  is 
asked  for,  and  that  all  their  little  reasonable  wants  are  attended  to. 
He  will  be  careful  to  make  as  little  noise  as  possible  in  moving 
about,  and  always  speak  to  patients  in  a  low  tone  of  voice. 

He  will  notice  particularly  all  unusual  sounds  in  the  patients' 
rooms,  and  ascertain  their  cause,  or  give  prompt  notice  to  the  pro- 
per attendant. 

_  When  there  are  sick  in  the  Wards,  he  will  pay  them  frequent 
visits — attend  to  all  their  wants,  and,  if  required,  administer,  their 
medicine. 

He  will  report  to  the  Physician  all  irregularities,  every  instance 
of  neglect,  and  all  violations  of  rule  that  may   come  under  his  no- 

■ 


13 

ticc  in  any  part  of  the  house,  or  on  the  premises — -and  enter  upon 
the  office  book  any  remarks  he  may  nave  to  make  upon  the  occur- 
rences of  the  night. 

Should  he  discover  fire  in  any  part  of  the  hospital  or  out-build- 
ings,— if  it  is  not  in  his  power  to  at  once  extinguish  it,  he  will  im- 
mediately give  notice  to  the  officers,  and  then  to  the  attendants,  but 
uever  raise  a  general  alarm.  lie  is  to  ring  the  bell  at  the  pre- 
scribed hour,  and  perform  such  other  duties  as  may  be  assigned 
him.  jau  -       . 

Tho  duties  of  the  Wat  eh  woman  are  confined  to  the  Wards  oc- 
cupied by  the  female  patients,  in  which  she  .will  spend  the- night, 
and  be  governed  by  the  samo  rules  as  the  Watchman. 

Both  will  be  careful  to  perform  their  responsible  trusts  with  the 
strictest  fidelity — to  he  constantly  vigilant,  and  never  to  sleep  while 
on  duty.  Any  suspicion  of  a  want  of  fidelity  in  these  officers  must 
necessarily  disqualify  them  for  their  stations.  Individuals  failing 
to  perform  their  whole  duty,  from  fear  or  any  other  cause,  will  not 
bo  retained  in  either  of  these  stations. 


m  ;.i 


DUTY  OF  ATTENDANTS  AND  ASSISTANTS. 

4*M51  T%ilT 

D  U  T  Y   T  0    0  V  F  J  C  K  K  S . 

It  is  expected  that  every  person  employed  in  the  Asylum,  will 
do  all  they  can  to  promote  the  welfare  of  tho  Institution,"  nnd  tre&t 
the  Officers,  on  all  occasions,  with  politeness  and  respect,  and  do, 
readily  and  cheerfully,  all  the  duty  which  they  require. 

All  must  expect  an  unceasing  observation  of  the  manner  of  per- 
forming^ their  respective  duty  ;  and  the  suggestion,  by  an  officer, 
of  deficiencies  or  improvements,  are  to  be  taken  kindly,  and  with- 
out offence,  and  an  effort  made  to  improve. 

DUTY  TO  EACH  OTHEK  AND  TO  THEMSELVES. 

in  the  first  place,  self-respect  is  enjoined  on  all.     Each  one  is 

;  onstble  in  his  or  her  department,  and  should  be  ambitious  to  do 
Lie  duties  of  it  to  entire  acceptance. 

Patients  will  look  to  attendants  for  good  examples ;  let  attend- 
ants be  careful  in  nothing  to  set  a  bad  one. 

Let  your  dress  always  be  neat  and  clean.  Avoid  all  ungentle- 
manlike  habits,— such  as  men's  wearing  their  hats  within  doors, 
going  m  shirt-sleeves,  &c.  Never  indulge  in  loud  talking  or  laugh- 
***g..  Use  no  profane,  obscene  or  vulgar  language.  Never  play  at 
any  game  with  one  anotker,  nor  with  patients,  excepting  at  tho 
Superintendent's  direction. 


14 

Treat  each  other  with  politeness ;  be  civil,  cordial,  and  frank. 
Let  a  smile  habitually  light  up  your  countenance  when  you  speak. 
A  calm  quiet,  cheerful  deportment  befits  your  employment.  Cher- 
ish a  high  sense  of  moral  obligation ;  cultivate  an  humble,  self- 
denying  spirit ;  seek  to  be  useful,  and  maintain,  at  all  hacards, 
your  purity,  truth,  sobriety,  economy,  faithfulness  and  honesty. 

No  attendant  or  assistant,  while  connected  with  the  Asylum, 
shall,  at  any  time,  at  home  or  abroad,  make  use  of  distilled  spirits, 
or  intoxicating  liquor  of  any  kind,  and  it  is  desirable  that  they 
should  not  use  tobacco,  but  discourage  the  use  of  it  by  patient6, 

DUTY  OF  ATTENDANTS  TO  PATIENTS. 

The  Attendants  are  to  treat  the  inmates  with  respect  and  atten- 
tion ;  greet  them  cheerfully  with  "good  morning,"  or  "good  even- 
ing," and  show  them  such  other  marks  of  good  will  and  kindness, 
as  evince  interest  and  sympathy.  Under  all  circumstances,  be  ten- 
der and  affectionate  ;  speak  in  a  mild,  persuasive  tone  of  voice  ; 
never  address  a  patient  coarsly,  by  a  nickname,  nor  by  a  christian 
nome,  nor  by  a  sirname,  without  the  addition  of  Mr.,  Mrs.  or  Mies. 

A  patient  is  ever  to  be  soothed  and  calmed  when  irritated  ;  en- 
couraged and  cheered  when  melancholy  or  depressed.  They  must 
never  be  pushed,  collared,  nor  rudely  handled.  To  induce  them 
to  move,  gentle,  persuasive  measures  will  prevail  in  most  cases  ; 
when  these  fail,  tell  the  Superintendent,  or,  if  he  be  absent,  the 
Assistant  Physician  or  Steward. 

If  the  attendant  receives  insult  and  abusive  language,  he  must 
keep  cool,  forbear  to  recriminate,  to  scold,  threaten,  or  dictate  in 
the  language  of  authority.  Violent  hands  are  never  to  be  laid  on 
a  patient,  under  any  provocation.  A  bloio  is  never  to  be  return- 
ed, nor  any  other  insult  Sufficient  force  to  prevent  the  patient's 
injuring  himself,  or  others,  is  always  to  be  applied  gentry ;  and 
all  struggling  with  a  patient,  shoujd,  if  possible,  be  avoided,  by 
calling  additional  assistance,  when  a  patient  is  highly  excited,  or 
disposed  to  violence,  before  entering  his  room  or  attempting  to 
dress  or  control  him. 

The  attendants  are  never  to  apply  any  restraining  apparatus, 
such  as  muffs,  mitts,  &c,  unless  by  order  of  a  resident  officer,  nor 
seclude  a  patient  without  giving  immediate  notice  to  one  of  the 
Physicians. 

On  rising  in  the  morning,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  attendants  to  see 
that  each  patient,  confided  to  his  or  her  care,  is  thoroughly  wash- 
j  ed,  hair  combed,  clothes  brushed,  and  cleaned,  if  necessary,  col- 
lars, wristbandB  *nd  tu*pen4ers  buttoned,  and  all  parts  of  'he 
... 


16 


dress  properly  adjusted  and  secured,  boots  and  shoes  cleaned  and 
tied ;  and  in  fact,  that  the  whole  dress  be  neat  and  in  good  repair. 
(All  of  this  should  be  relooked  to  throughout  the  day,  and  espe- 
cially before  coming  to  meals  or  religious  services,  or  going  to  ride 
or  walk.)  The  patients'  beds  are  then  to  be  made*  and  the  halls, 
day-rooms,  bathing-rooms,  passages  and  stairs  to  be  swept,  and  the 
whole  premises  put  in  complete  order  as  soon  as  it  can  be  done;  so 
that  a  complete  inspection  may  be  had  of  the  house  by  the  Phy- 
sicians, commencing  at  .9  o'clock.  Previous  to  which  time,  no  pa- 
tients are  to  leave  the  house  to  walk,  labor  or  ride,  without  direc- 
tions, special  or  general,  of  the  medical  officer.  By  10  o'clock, 
the  morning's  work  should  be  completed,  and  the  house  in  order 
for  visitors  in  every  part. 

One  Attendant  must  always  be  in  each  hall  with  the  patients; 
and  he  must  not  leave  under  any  circumstances,  but  when  relieved. 
The  Attendants  must  not  retire  to  their  rooms  while  the  patients 
are  in  the  halls.      Thi%  rule  must  be  observed  in  all  the  halls. 

At  meals,  two  Attendants  must  always   be  present  to  carve,  to 
distribute  food  to  those  who  are  incompetent  to  do  it  for  them- 
selves, and  to  see  that  every  one  has  a  proper  supply.     One  of 
them  must  be  designated  to  see  that  no  patient  carry  away  a  knife 
fork,  or  any  other  article  from  the  table,    i 
i  An  Attendant  must  never  place  in  the  hands  of  a  patient,   or 
leave  where  a  patient  can  get,   any  razor,  pen-knife,  rope,  cord, 
medicine,  or  any  dangerous  weapon  or  article.     A  constant  watch 
of  patients  is  to  be  kept  in  these  respects ;  their  beds  frequently 
searched  for  such  articles,  and  the  knives  and  forks  counted  after 
each  meal.     An  Attendant  must  never  deliver  any  letter  or  writ- 
ing from  or  to  a  patient,  without  permission  of  the  Superintendent 
nor  even  retain  m  his  or  her  possession,   without  such  permission, 
any  writing  of  a  patient. 

The  Attendants  in  each  hall  are  responsible  for  the  safe-keeping 
of  the  patients  therein,  and  must  not  leave  them,  except  in  the 
care  of  some  responsible  person.  There  is  an  obvious  impropriety 
in  Attendants  sitting  in  their  rooms,  engaged  in  reading  or  writing 
during  hours  of  duty:  i.  e.,  from  the  time  the  patients  get  up  in 
the  morning,  until  they  retire  at  night.  During  this  time,  they 
snouid  be  in  their  own  rooms  only  long  enough  to  adjust  their  own 
dress.  ,r  All  these  hours,  with  this  sole  exception,  should  be  devoted 
to  the  patients  ;  endeavoring  to  keep  them  tidy  and  warm,  to  pre- 
vent improper  conduct,  bad  postures,  (such  as  lying  on  the  floor  or 
ground,  &c.,)  and  to  instruct,  comfort  and  amuse  them  by  talking 
with  them,  reading  to  them,  and  the  like.  ' 

Suicides  and  elopements  are  most  frequent  about  meal  times,  at 

• 


At 

16 

dusk,  and  at  the  hour  of  religious  services;  therefore,  the  strictest 
watch  is  to  be  kept  at  these  times,  xittendants  must  always  be 
stationed  where  they  can  see  patients  during  meals  or  religious 
services,  and  see  that  no  one  passes  out  of  the  house,  and  that 
each  one  returns  to  his  or  her  Apartment.  Attendants  are  to  look 
not  merely  to  those  under  their  immediate  charge,  but  with  con- 
stant watchfulness,  over  all  the  patients.  They  must  endeavor  to 
prevent  any  from  eloping  or  wandering.  The  clothes  of  suicidal 
patients,  and  every  dangerous  article,  should  bo  removed  from  their 
rooms  at  night,  and  the  windows  fastened.  Each  Attendant  should 
?     always  know  where  every  one  is  of  those  committed  to  their  charge. 

When  patients  ride  out,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  driver  of  the  car- 
riage to  sec  that  they  do  not  leave  the  carriage,  nor  communicate 
with  persons  casually  'met,  nor  deliver  letters,  packages  or  mes- 
sages, nor  procure  weapons,  tobacco,  or  other  articles.  He  is  not 
to  stop  and  do  errands  for  himself  or  others,  without  permission  of 
the  Superintendent.  When  patients  walk  out  with  an  Attendant, 
he  shall  keep  them  together,  and  observe  the  some  prohibitions  as 
the  driver  ;  he  shall  also  particularly  avoid  going  near  dangerous 
places,  as  railroads,  precipices,  rivers,  wells,  machinery,  &c,  or 
into  woods  or  other  places  favorable  for  elopement. 

Attendants  will  go  to  the  office  for  medicine  half  an  hour  before 
each  meal,  and  see  that  the  whole  is  given  at  the  time  directed,  and 
that  it  is  all  swallowed.  Each  cup  is  marked  with  the  patient's 
name.  Extreme  care  must  be  taken  to  avoid  mistakes,  and  to  pre- 
vent patients  helping  themselves  to  medicine ;  therefore,  all  cups, 
vials,  boxes,  &c,  containing  medicine,  should  be  kept  locked  up. 
Within  an  hour  of  the  time  of  taking  them  from  the  office,  the 
cups  should  be  cleaned  and  returned  to  the  office.  In  going  for 
tlie  cups,  and  returning  them,  the  attendants  must  not  delay  in  the 
passage,  nor  hold  any  other  conversation  than  to  report  to  the  Su- 
perintendent or  Physician,  changes  in  the  condition  of  the  patients, 
which  they  are  always  to  do  immediately^ 

All  damages  by  patients,  and  all  their  waneo  as  to  clothes  and 
other  articles  necessary  to  put  these  rules  in  p  <,ctice,  are  to  be  re- 
ported by  the  Supervisors,  to  the  Steward  or  Matron.  It  will  be 
no  excuse  for  Attendants  that  their  rooms,  beds  and  patients  are 
not  in  ample  order,  to  say:  they  have  not  what  n  necessary  ;  for 
their  application  for  such  articles  should  be  unceasing  until  they  get 
them.  Attendants  must  be  particularly  careful  not  to  break  their 
keys;  and  when  any  door  locks  or  unlocks  with  difficulty,  imme- 
diate notice  should  be  given  at  the  office  of  the  Superintendent. 

The  Attendants  must  never  ridicule  the  patients,  nor  mock  or 
imitate  them,  nor  do  any  thing  to  wound  their  feelings.     If  the 


IT 

patient  engages  in  any  controversy,  or  other  improper  or  exciting 
topic  of  discourse,  tho  attendant  must,  in  the  gentlest  manner  pos- 
sible, interfere  and  check  it ;  should  such  means  fail,  one  of  the  re- 
sident officers  should  he  informed  immediately.  The  history,  con- 
duct and  conversation  of  patients  must  never  bo  spoken  of  to  vis- 
itors, nor  reported  by  Attendants  when  abroad. 

Attendants  must  look  particularly  to  the  comfort  of  patients  in 
their  special  charge,  and  visit  them  )ate  at  night  and  early  in  the 
morning.  In  speaking  to  patients  of  the  officers,  Attendants 
should  inculcate  respect  and  confidence  in  their  management,  and 
carry  into  operation  all  directions  md  prescriptions,  in  the  most 
ready  and  faithful  manner. 

Hfflery  patient  i>n/.st  he  in  tlic  change  of  some  responsible  indi- 
vidual at  all  times,  unless  permitted  to  he  at  large  by  the  Super- 
intendent. The  person  who  takes  a  patient  from  one  of  the  halls, 
shall  be  accountable  for  his  or  her  sale  keeping  until  returned  to 
the  same,  or  intrusted  by  a  resident  officer  to  the  eare  of  another 
person. 

No  patient  shall  be  permitted  to  gO  mil  of  the  hall  in  which  his 
or  her  room  is  situated,  without  the  Consent,  of  a  resident  officer; 
and  no  new  patient,  without  an  order  of  the  Superintendent  or 
Physician. 

Food  is  not  to  be  carried  to  the  rooms  of  the  patients  ;  nor  is 
any  one  to  be  absent  from  the  regular  meals,  (excepting  in  cases  of 
sickness  or  high  excitement.)  without  permission  of  one  of  the 
Physicians. 

Attendants  will  daily  notice  the  habits  and  condact  of  patients, 
and  inform  the  Physician  at  his  daily  visit,  of  all  circumstances  re- 
quiring attention — such  as  loss  of  appetite,  or  any  indisposition^ 
eostiVenfessj  tendency  to  suicide,  &c. 

No  conversation  must  ever  be  held  with  patients  through  the 
windows,  either  by  officers,  assistants,  or  visitors  ;  nor  must  any 
thing  be  thrown  away  thro"^  a  window. 

DUTY  TO  TT"  K  INSTITUTION. 

The  Attendants  and  Assistants  must  never  leave  the  Asylum 
without  permission  from  the  Superintendent  or  Assistant  Physi- 
cian, and  always  return  previous  to  the  next  meal  time,  unless  leave 
be  expressly  given  to  stay  longer.  Application  for  leave  of  ab- 
sence should  be  made  several  hours  before  leaving.  Attendants, 
when  thus  leaving,  must  deposit  the  keys  of  their  hall  in  the  office 
of  the  Superintendent,  until  their  return. 

The  Attendants  must  never  give  up  a  key,  nor  let  any  person 
into  the  halls  without  permission  of  a  resident  officer.     No  raaio 


1* 

attendant,  without  such  permission,  shall  enter  a  female  Apart- 
ment. 

All  persons  who  engage  ?n  employment  at  the  Asylum,  shall  be 
considered  as  engaged  For  one  year,  unless  a  special  contract  is 
made  for  a  longer  or  a  shorter  term.  It  is  expected  that  all  per- 
sons will  fulfil  their  engagements  scrupulously,  as  to  time  of  service 
and  duty  to  be  performed,  agreeably  to  their  respective  contiaets; 
and  no  one  shall  diseoirrinue  service  at  phf  Asylum,  or  on  the  farm, 
without  giving  at  least  thirty  days  notice,  in  writing,  to  the  Super- 
intendent or  Steward. 

No  company  sjiajl  be  admitted  into  the  rooms  or  hftlls  occupied 
by  the  patients  at  any  time,  except  by  the  express  permission  of 
the  Superintendent ;  but  all  other  parts  of  i)\L-  Asylum  audits 
grounds,  may  be  exhibited  by  the  (Steward,  Assistant  Physician,  or 
Matron.  All  persons  employed  in  the  Institution  are  expected  to 
show  marked  attention  and  respect  to  strangers  and  visitors. 

An  indispensable  <iuty  of  the  Attendants  and  Assistants,  is  to 
secure  the  perfect  and  systematic  cleanliness  and  neatness  of  the 
Asylum  and  its  inmates.  No  part  of  the  house  is  to  be  considered 
cleatii  wlien  it  can  be  made  cleaner*  The  spittoons,  stoves,  grates, 
hearths,  floors,  windows^  tables,  beds  and  bedding,  cellars,  closets 
and  butteries,  are  to  be  scrupulously  attend*  d  to  every  day  ;  so  as 
to  preserve  a  pure  atmosphere.  Chamber  vessels  arc  always  to  bo 
removed  and  thoroughly  cleaned  immediately  after  use. 

The  Attendants  must  look  well  to  all  doors  and  windows  connect- 
ed with  the  patients'  rooms  and  halls;  and  at  bed  time  see  that  no 
attempts,  are  making  to  get  out — see  that  the  patients'  doors  are 
all  safely  locked,  and  the  doors  communicating  with  the  centre 
building;  also,  take  care  of  all  fires  and  lights, — each  attendant 
keeping  a  light  in  a  lantern,  burning  all  night,  in  his  room,  or  in 
the  adjoining  entry.  Visiting  from  hall  to  hall,  and  especially  to 
the  kitchen,  bakery,  laundry,  or  shops,  without  special  business,  is 
a  violation  of  duty.  All  the  doors  of  the  patients'  room?  shall  be 
kept  locked,  while  the  patients  are  in  bed,  unless  otherwise  directed 
by  t\\a  Superintendent.  In  locking  doors,  be  careful  Iways  to 
hear  the  bolt  dip  :     This  precaution  will  often  prevent  escape. 

The  whole  time  of  the  Attend  ants  and  Assistants  belong  to  the 
Asylum.  This  rule  applies  equally  to  the  Clerk,  Supervisors,  Over- 
seers, and  all  in  tho  regular  employ  of  the  Asylum.  This  does  not 
prohibit  each  one  from  attending  to  his  or  her  own  clothing ;  but  to 
no  other  service  can  they  devote  any  time,  nor  can  they  receive  any 
compensation,  besides  their  reguiar  wages,  for  any  service  or  labor, 
excepting  only  by  express  permission  of  the  Superintendent  in  each 
case.  * 


ft 

An j  Atiend&nt  Or  Assistant  receiving  any  present  of  gratuity 
from  any  patient,  (or  the  friend  of  a  pa  tie  AC)  in  the  Asylum,  of 
from  any  visitor;  or  selling  to,  of  buying  any  thing  from,  a  pa- 
tient ;  or  making  any  perquisite,  of  any  kind  whatever,  shall  be  in- 
stant! v  dismissed: 


ADMISSION  OF  PATIENTS. 

Each  Patient,  before  admission^  shall  be  made  perfectly  clean, 
and  free  from  vermin,  or  any  contagious  disc 

"Each  male  patient  shall  be  provided  with  at  least  two  new  shirts, 
and  a  new  and  substantial  coat,  vest,  ami  two  pair  of  good  panta- 
loons and  Bocks,  a  black  cravat  or  stock,  a  good  hat  or  crip,  and 
one  good  pair  of  boots  or  shoes,  together  with  a  good  comfortable 
out  side  garment. 

Each  female  patient,  in  addition  to  the  same  quantity  of  under 
garments,  shoes  and  stockings,  shall  have  a  good  flannel  petticoat, 
two  good  dresses,  also  a  cloak  or  outside  garment.  In  case  the 
patient  is  so  much  excited  as  not  to  admit  of  being  thus  clothed, 
other  clothing,  that  can  be  kept  on,  which  is  comfortable  and  in 
sufficient  quantity,  may  be  substituted.  It  is  desirable  that  extra 
kt\<1  better  apparel  should  be  sent  with  those  accustomed  to  it,  that 
when  they  are  able  to  attend  religious  services,  walk,  or  ride  out, 
their  self  respect  may  be  nroserved. 

In  all  cases  the  patient  s  best  clothing  should  be  sent ;  it  wiii  be 
carefully  preserved,  and  only  used  when  deemed  necessary.  A 
"written  history  of  each  patient,  and  if  possible,  some  one  well  ac- 
quainted with  him  or  her  and  the  case,  should  accompany  him  or 
her  to  the  Asylum,— from  whom  minute  and  often  very  essential 
particulars  may  be  learned.  Payment  shall  be  made  quarterly  ia 
advance,  for  all  patients  sent  by  the  order  of  County  Courts;  (for 
which  said  Counties  are  liable)  at  the  rate  of  §2  per  week,  and  for 
all  private  patients,  not  less  than  $5  per  week,  semi-annually  in 
advance. 

STATED  HOURS  FOR  MEALS,  AC. 

The  morning  bell  shall  be  rung  for  two  or  three  minutes,  at  half- 
past  four  o'clock,  A.  M.,  in  May,  June,  July  and  August;  at  five 
in  March,  April,  September  and  October  ;  and  at  half  past  five 
in  November,  December,  January  and  February.  It  is  requir- 
ed that  all  persons  who  have  duty  to  perferUI  in  the  Institution, 
ri«*in  the  morning  at  the  ringing  of  the  wl-1. 


9J) 

Breakfast  is  always  to  be  placed  upon  the  table  prccic  ely  two 
hours  after  the  ringing  of  the  bell:  i.  e.,  in  the  summer  at  half 
past  six  o'clock,  in  the  spring  and  fall  at  seven,  and  at  halT-past 
seven  in  winter.  Dinner  will  be  served  uniformly  at  half-past 
twelve,  M.,  and  tea  at  six,  P.  M.,  the  year  round. 

The  A  sylum  is  to  be  closed  at  nine  o'clock  every  night ;  at  which 
time  the  attendants  and  assistants  must  all  retire  to  their  apart- 
ments. 

Sunday  is  to  he  a  Sabbath,  or  day  of  rest  and  quiet,  at  the  Asy- 
lum. The  buildings  and  grounds  are  not  to  be  exhibited  to  visi- 
tors on  this  day  ;  nor  shall  any  visitor  be  admitted  into  the  galle- 
ries or  rooms  of  patients  or  attendants. 

ADMISSION  OF  VISITORS. 

The  following  Rules  for  the  Admission  of  Visitors  are  appended, 
that  they  may  be  familiar  to  all  employed  in  the  Institution : 

Visitors  are  admitted  between  ten  o'clock,  A.  M.,  and  twelve 
o'clock,  M.,  and  between  two  and  four  o'clock,?.  M.  No  visitors 
will  be  received  on  Sabbath  nor  on  the  afternoon  of  Saturday,  un- 
less on  special  business,  with  the  attending  Managers,  or  one  of 
the  officers  of  the  house. 

All  parts  of  the  Hospital  not  occupied  by  patients  may  be  shown 
and  explained  during  the  hours  for  the  Admission  of  Visitors. 

No  visitor,  unless  in  company  with  a  Manager,  can  be  taken  intq 
the  Wards,  without  permission  from  the  Physician  of  the  Hospital, 
or,  in  his  absence,  from  the  Assistant  Physician ;  and  when  visi- 
tors are  allowed  to  enter  the  Wards,  they  will  always  be  accom- 
panied by  one  of  the  officers,  or  by  the  Steward  or  Matron. 

Visitors  are  not  to  pass  through  the  Grounds  or  Hospital  with- 
out special  permission,  and  they  are  recjucstcd  not  to  stand  near 
the  windows,  or  to  converse  with  patients  from  the  outside  of  the 
building. 

As  this  Hospital  cannot  be  allowed  to  become  a  resort  for.  idle 
curiosity,  it  is  hoped  that  the  friends  of  patients,  and  all  others, 
will  carefully  avoid  prolonging  their  visits  unnecessarily. 

It  is  expressly  foi  bidden  to  furnish  any  inmate  of  this  Asylum 
with  tobacco  in  any  form  ;  or  to  deliver  to,  or  receive  from,  a  pa- 
tient, any  letter,  parcel,  or  package,  without  the  knowledge  and 
approbation  of  the  Physician. 

Funds  for  the  use  of  the  patients  are  to  be  placed  in  the  hands 
of  the  Clerk,  to  be  used  under  the  direction  of  the  Physician. 

When  visitors  so  far  forget  what  is  due  to  feelings  of  the  afflict* 
ed,  a«  to  make  improper  remarks  to  patients,  or  to  institute  indeli- 


21 

cate  inquiries,  all  persons  will  be  careful  to  discountenance  such  a 
course  of  conduct,  and  abstain  from  mentioning  the  names  of  pa- 
tients, their  peculiarities,  or  any  other  circumstances  respecting 
them — a  general  knowledge  of  which  might  be  painful  to  any  per- 
sons connected  with  them.  None  of  us  would  be  willing  to  have 
our  own  friends,  if  laboring  under  insanity,  exhibited  to  strangers, 
and  we  are  bound  in  honor  to  protect  others  from  a  like  exposure. 

No  visitor  shall  Remain  at  the  Asylum  or  within  the  enclosures, 
after  the  hours  designated  for  the  Reception  of  Visitors,  unless  it 
be  by  the  special  permission  of  the  Superintendent. 

Vehicles,  within  the  enclosure,  should  always  be  left  in  t he- 
care  of  the  driver,  as  it  is  unsafe  to  leave  horses  unattended  in  any 
part  of  the  Ground?.  Visitors  are  requested  to  register  their 
names  in  a  book  kept  for  that  purpose. 

The  Superintendent  will  receive,  at  discretion,  all  visitors  who 
apply  directly  to  the  Asylum  for  admission  ;  and  any  member  of 
the  Board  of  Managers  may  deliver  tickets  of  Admission,  to  ap- 
plicants. 


'  * 


' 


LUNATIC  ASYLUM 


LAW  IN  KELATION  THERETO. 


Section  1.  The  Governor  shall  appoint  five  Managers  for  the 
State  Lunatic  Asylum,  who  shall  be  citizens  of  the  State.  Of 
those  first  appointed,  one  shall  serve  one  year,  cne  two  years,  one 
three  years,  and  two  four  years,  and"  their  successors  shall  be  ap- 
pointed for  a  te/m  of  four  years,  or  in  ease  of  vacancy  during  a 
term,  for  the  unexpired  term. 

Sec.  2.  The  Managers  shall  serve  without  compensation.  They 
shall  have  general  direction  and  control  of  the  property  and  busi- 
ness of  the  Asylum.  They  shall  have  power  to  make,  with  the  ap- 
proval of  the  Governor,  all  necessary  by-laws  and  regulations  (not 
inconsistent  with  the  laws  of  this  State,)  for  the  government  of  the 
Institution  and  of  its  officers,  employees  and  inmates,  and  for  the 
admission  of  visitors.  They  shall  prescribe  the  duties  of  all  per- 
sons employed  about  the  Asylum,  and  determine  their  salaries,  ex- 
cept in  cases  specially  provided  for  by  law  ;  and  may  at  pleasure 
discharge  any  person  or  officer  in  the  Asylum,  except  the  Super- 
intendent. They  may,  with  the  concurrence  of  the  Superinten- 
dent, appoint  an  Assistant  Physician.  They  may  take  and  hold  in 
trust  any  gift  or  devise  of  real  or  personal  estate  for  the  benefit  of 
the  Asylum,  and  shall  make  such  application  thereof  as  the  donor 
or  devisor  may  prescribe.  They  shall  examine  the  accounts  and 
vouchers  of  the  Superintendent,  and  approve  of  such  as  may  be 
necessary  and  proper.  They  shall  exercise  a  careful  supervision 
over  the  general  operations  and  expenditures  of  the  Asylum,  and 
direct  the  manner  in  which  its  revenues  shall  be  disbursed. 

Sec.  3.  The  managers  shall  hold  quarterly  meetings  at  the 
Asylum,  when  a  majority  shall  constitute  a  quorum  for  the  trans- 
action of  its  business.  One  or  more  of  the  managers  shall  visit 
the  Asylum  and  inspect  the  same  once  in  every  month,  or  oftenei' ; 
«,nd  they  shall  keep  a  full  account  of  their  visits  and  proceedings  in 


23 

a  took  to  be  provided  for  the  purpose,  mid  shall  make  a  report  to 
the  Governor  on  the  first  day  of  October  of  each  year,  setting  forth 
the  condition  and  wants  of  the  Institution. 

Sec,  4.  The  Treasurer  of  the  State  .-hall  act  as  Treasurer  of  the 
Asylum,  and  shall  collect  all  its  dues,  and  pay  out  its  revenues  only 
in  conformity  with  the  laws  of  ihe  State,  and  the  by-laws  of  the 
Institution  ;  and  he  and  the  sJuretiea  on  his  o/ncial  bond  shall  bo 
liable  for  any  violation  or  neglect  of  duly.  He  shall  make  a  re- 
port to  the  Governor  e:'  the  conditioner  its  finances  and  expendi- 
tures, on  the  first  day  of  October  of  each  year. 

Sec.  .">.  The  Superintendent  shall  be  a  married  man  and  a  skill- 
ful phvsiciau,  experienced  in  the  treatment  of  the  insane.  I le  shall 
continue  iu  office  for  ike  term  of  four  years  from  the  time  of  bis 
app<  intenent^  unless  Booner  removed  by  the  Governor  for  incompe- 
tency, refusal  to  discharge  any  of  his  duties,  or  for  any  misconduct 
on  his  part,  whick might  reader  ^improper  for  him"  to  continue* 
longer  iu  office-,  lie  shall  reside  in  the  Asylum  with  his  family 
wbeu  required  to  do  so  by  the  managers. 

Sec.  6.  The  Superintendent  shall  be  the  Chief  Executive  and 
medical  officer  of  the  Asylum,  and  shall  (subject  to  the  by-laws,) 
have  care  and  control  over  everything  connected  therewith.  He 
shall  attend  to  the  enforcement  ->f  the  laws  and  by-laws,  and  sea 
that  all  persons  connected  with  the  Institution  faithfully  and  dili- 
gently perform  the  duties  assigned  them.  lie  shall,  with  the  con- 
sent of  the  managers,  employ  such" officers,  attendants  and  other 
persona  aa  may  be  required  for  the  service  of  the  Institution,  and 
may  at  pleasure  discharge  them.  He  shall  receive  and  discharge 
patients,  and  shall  annually  by  the  first  day  of  October,  cause  an 
inventory  of  all  the  personal  property  belonging  to  the  Asylum  to 
be  made  out,  with  an  estimate  of  the  value  of  each  article,  and  sub- 
mit the  same  to  the  Managers.  He  shall  be  ex-officio  Secretary  of 
the  Board  of  Managers,  and  shall  superintend  repairs  and  improve- 
ments, and  see  that  the  money  intrusted  to  him  is  properly  and 
economically  expended,  and  shall  keep  an  accurate  account  of  tho 
same.  He  shall  be  "bo  responsible  disbursing  officer  of  the  Insti- 
tution, and  shall  gi;  end  for  ihe  faithful  performance  of  his  du- 
ties, made  payable  ■  uu6  State  in  the  sum  ef  ten  thousand  dollars, 
with  two  or  more  sufficient  sureties,  to  be  approved  by  the  Treas- 
urer. 

SbQ.  7.  The  Superintendent  shall  keep  a  register  of  all  putien  3 
received  and  discbarged,  and  of  the  operations  of  the  Asylum, 
which  may  be  required  by  the  by-laws,  and  report  the  general  re- 
sults to  the  Governor  on  the  first  day  of  October  of  each  year. 

Sec.  8.  If  information  in  writing  be  given  to  any  Chief  Justice 
of  a  County,  that  any  person  in  his  County  is  an  idiot,  or  lunatic, 


24 

rjr  nan  comnos  mentis,  and  that  the  welfare  of  himself  or  of  oth- 
ers requires  that  he  be  placed  under  restraint,  and  said  Chief  Jus- 
tice shall  believe  such  information  to  be  true,  he  shall  order  such 
person  to  be  brought  before  him,  and  twelve  competent  jurors  of 
the  County  to  be  summoned,  who  shall,  be  sworn  to  inquire  and  a 
true  verdict  render,  whether  such  person  is  of  sound  mind  or  not ; 
whereupon,  the  matter  shall  be  tried,  and  if  the  jury  shall  return  a 
verdict  that  the  person  is  not  of  sound  mind,  and  that  he  should  bo 
placed  under  restraint,  the  some  shall  be  recorded,  and  the  Chief 
Justice  shall  thereupon  order  him  to  be  sent  to  the  Lunatic  Asy- 
lum, unless  some  friend  (to  whom  the  Chief  Justice  in  his  discre- 
tion may  deliver  such  person,)  will  give  bond  payable  to  the  State, 
with  sufficient  security,  to  be  approved  by  said  Chief  Justice,  with 
the  condition  to  restrain  and  take  proper  care  of  such  person,  un^ 
til  the  cause  of  confinement  shall  cease,  or  lie  is  delivered  to  the 
♦Sheriff  of  tho  County,  or  other  person,  to  be  proceeded  with  ac- 
cording to  law.  Upon  the  trial  and  inquiry  herein  provided  for, 
the  examination  of  the  insane  and  the  testimony  of  witnesses  shall 
be  reduced  to  writing  and  filed.  The  proceedings  of  the  Chief 
Justice  in  relation  to  insane  persons  shall  be  minuted  in  the  record 
of  his  court  appertaining  to  estates  of  deceased  persons,  &c. 

Sec.  9.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Chief  Justice,  on  ordering  a 
person  to  be  sent  to  the  Asylum,  to  ascertain, 

1.  The  number  of  his  family,  if  he  has  one,  and  their  ability  to 
maintain  themselves ; 

2.  The  value  of  his  estate,  if  any;  and, 

%>.  The  ability  of  persons  legally  liable  for  his  Support.  And  ho 
shall  make  an  order  specifying  the  amount  which  his  guardian,  if 
any,  shall  pay  out  of  the  estate  of  such  person,  for  his  support  in 
the  Asylum  ;  and  shall  cause  a  minute  to  be  made  of  the  facts  as- 
certained. 

S$C.  10.  Before  sending  a  patient  to  the  Asylum,  the  Chief 
Justice  shall,  without  delay,  cause  authenticated  copies  to  be  made 
of  the  proceedings,  evidence  and  decree  of  the  original  inquisition, 
and  of  the  record  of  all  subsequent  inquisitions  and  orders,  to  be 
forwarded  by  mail  to  the  Superintendent  of  the  Lunatic  Asylum  ; 
and  in  all  cases,  except  those  of  great  emergency,  shall,  before 
sending  said  person,  ascertain  from  the  Superintendent  by  applica- 
tion in  writing,  that  there  is  a  vacancy,  and  that  the  officers  of  the 
Asylum  cannot  send  for  him.  Thereupon,  the  Chief  Justice  shall 
issue  his  warrant  to  the  Sheriff,  or  other  suitable  individual,  order- 
ing him  to  convey  said  person  to  the  Asylum  without  delay  ;  and 
when  satisfied  of  the  necessity  for  assistants,  ho  shall  prescribe  in 
such  warrant  the  number  to  be  allowed,  which  in  no  case  shall  ex- 


25 

eeed  two  :  and  he  shall  see  that  the  patient  is  provided  with  two 
good  and  fail  suits  of  summer,  nnd  one  of  winter  clothing. 

Sec.  11.  If  any  person  charged  with  or  convicted  of  any  crim- 
inal offence,  be  found  t3  be  insane  in  the  court  before  which  he  is 
so  charged,  or  convicted,  said  court  shall  order  him  to  be  conveyed 
to  and  retained  in  the  State  Lunatic  Asylum  ;  and  he  shall  be  re- 
ceived and  retained,  until  removed  by  order  of  the  court  by  which 
he  was  committed  to  the  Asylum. 

Sec.  12.  No  idiot  who  can  be  safely  kept  in  the  County  to  which 
he  belongs,  nor  any  person  laboring  under  a  contagious  or  infec- 
tious disease,  shall  be  sent  to  the  Asylum. 

Sec.  13.  Any  person  may  be  admitted  into  and  retained  in  the 
Asylum  as  a  patient : 

1.  Upon  the  order  of  any  court  or  Judge  authorized  to  send  per- 
sons to  the  As}Tlum. 

2.  Upon  the  written  request  of  his  legal  guardian,  near  relative,  or 
friend,  if  he  has  no  guardian,  or  of  the  persons  or  of  counties  that  may 
be  legally  liable  for  support.  Such  request  shall  set  forth  the  name, 
age  and  residence  of  the  persons  for  whom  admission  is  requested,  and 
such  other  particulars  of  the  case  as  may  be  recpiired  by  the  Man- 
agers, and  shall  be  signed  under  oath,  and  accompanied  with  a  cer- 
tificate dated  within  two  months,  under  oath,  signed  by  one  re- 
spectable physician,  of  the  fact  of  his  being  insane ;  and  also,  a 
certificate  from  the  Chief  Justice  of  the  County,  as  to  the  respect 
lability  of  the  physician  so  certif}Ting  :  provided,  that  for  private 
patients,  the  friends  shall  pay  six  months'  board,  always  in  advance, 
and  give  such  bond  and  security  for  the  payment  of  the  expenses 
of  such  patient,  as  may  from  time  to  time  be  required  by  the  by- 
laws of  the  Asylum. 

Sec.  14.  If  applications  shall  be  made  for  the  admission  of 
more  patients  than  can  be  received  in  the  Asylum,  preferences,  in 
all  instances,  shall  be  given  to  those  made  under  order  of  court- 
over  private  applications  ;  and  of  the  former,  to  those  for  cases  of 
less  than  one  year's  duration  over  chronic  oases. 

Sec.  15.  Any  patient  except  such  as  have  been  committed  un- 
der the  provisions  of  the  eleventh  section  of  this  act.  may  be  dis- 
charged upon  the  recommendation  of  the  Superintendent,,  approv- 
ed by  two  of  the  Managers.  Incurable  and  harmless  patients,  and 
such  others  as  the  Superintendent  may  deem  proper,  may  in  like 
manner  be  discharged  whenever  it  is  necessary  to  make  room  for 
recent  cases,  or  when,  for  any  other  cause,  it  may  seem  expedient. 

Sec.  10.  When  the  patient  is  discharged  uncured,  the  Superin- 
tendent shall  see  that  a  suitable  guard  is  provided  to  carry  him  to- 
las friends,  or  to  the  County  from,  which  he  was  sent.     No  patient 


20 

shall  be  discharged  without  suitable  clothing,  or  without  money  to 
pay  his  necessary  expenses  home. 

Sec.  17.  The  amount  to  be  paid  for  the  board  of  patients  ad- 
mitted into  the  Hospital,  shall  be  at  the  rate  of  two  dollars  per 
week  for  each  person  supported  by  the  County,  and  for  every  other 
person  that  the  Managers  may  find  not  to  !>e  possessed  of  estate 
sufficient  to  support  him  and  his  family,  (or  if  he  has  no  family 
himself,)  under  the  visitation  of  insanity,  or  that  the  persons  legally 
liable  for  his  support  are  in  indigent  circumstances.  For  all  other 
persons  the  Superintendent  may  make  a  special  contract,  at 
the  rate  not  less  than  five  dollars  per  week.  In  all  cases,  the  ex- 
pense of  removing  the  patient  from  the  Asylum  home,  and  for  the 
necessary  clothing  with  which  he  shall  be  furnished  by  the  Asylum, 
if  not  otherwise  provided,  shall  be  extra  charges.  The  expense  of 
persons  committed  under  the  eleventh  section  of  this  act,  shall  be 
defrayed  by  the  State,  and  the  excess  of  the  expenses  of  those  com- 
mitted by  order  of  the  court,  and  of  other  patients,  over  and  above 
what  is  required  in  the  foregoing  rates,  shall  in  like  manner  be  de- 
frayed by  the  State. 

Sec.  18.  The  expenses  of  clothing,  maintenance  in  the  Asylum, 
and  removal  home  therefrom,  of  every  person  received  upon  the 
order  of  any  Chief  Justice,  shall  be  paid  by  the  Treasurer  of  the 
County  from  which  he  was  sent,  when  and  as  they  become  due  and 
payable,  according  to  the  by-laws  of  the  Asylum.  And  the  County 
Court  shall  have  the  right  to  require  every  individual  legally  liable 
for  the  support  of  such  patient,  to  reimburse  the  amount  so  paid? 
with  interest  from  the  time  of  paying  the  same. 

Sec.  19.  No  person  of  unsound  mind  who  is  unable  to  support 
himself,  shall  become  chargeable  to  any  County,  unless  he  has  ac- 
quired a  legal  settlement  therein,  and  shall  not  be  deemed  to  have 
acquired  such  settlement,  unless  he  shall  have  resided  one  year  in 
the  State,  and  six  months  in  the  County.  When  any  person  of  un- 
sound mind  shall  come  into  the  County,  who  is  likely  to  become 
chargeable  thereto,  the  Chief  Justice  of  such  County  may,  by 
warrant,  cause  such  person  to  be  removed  to  the  County  wherein 
he  was  last  legally  settled,  unless  he  be  so  sick  or  disabled  that  he 
cannot  be  removed  without  danger  of  life,  in  which  case  he  shall  be 
provided  for  at  the  expense  of  the  County  wherein  he  is,  until  he 
can  be  so  removed. 

Sec.  20.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  County  Court  of  each 
County,  that  shall  be  chargeable  with  the  support  of  one  or  more 
persons  of  unsound  mind,  to  make  provision  therefor  in  its  annual 
levy  of  the  County  tax. 

Sec.  21.  If  any  patient  confined  in  the  Asylum  shall  escape 
therefrom,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Sheriff"  of  any  County  in 


2T 

which  he  may  be  found,  to  apprehend  him  ;  and  if  required  by  the 
Superintendent  or  Chief  Justice,  to  take  him  back  to  the  Asylum. 

Sec.  22.  The  officer  complying  with  the  order  of  the  court,  or 
the  Superintendent,  in  carrying  a  patient  to  the  Asylum,  shall,  on 
presentation  of  the  proper  vouchers,  be  paid  out  of  the  treasury  of 
the  Asylum,  at  the  rate  of  ten  cents  per  mile  for  himself,  and 
each  guard,  (authorized  by  the  court)  going  and  returning,  besides 
tolls  and  ferriages,  and  the  same  for  the  patient  going. 

Sec.  23.  No  Manager  or  other  person  connected  with  the  Insti- 
tution, shall  sell  any  article  to  the  Asylum,  or  have  any  interest  in 
any  contract  therewith. 


